Men, take care of your mental health

Jason Tyndale* is fast approaching the big 5-0! He has lived a somewhat fulfilling life with a successful career, a great family life, and, of course, a close-knit group of friends he can always rely on. But deep down there was something missing! He just couldn’t seem to put his finger on it, but he knew that he was not doing well.

He woke up every morning, just as tired as the day before. It was difficult for him to focus on his tasks, and he was constantly irritable and anxious. Tyndale woke up in the middle of the night, and it became increasingly difficult for him to go back to sleep.

MIDLIFE CRISIS

He surmised that perhaps he was going through a midlife crisis. However, his symptoms continued to worsen. “One night I woke up and my chest felt really tight, and my heart was racing. I thought I was having a heart attack. I woke up my wife immediately and I was rushed to the emergency room. After a series of tests, I was informed that I had suffered a panic attack,” Tyndale said.

“This was new to me. As far as I knew I had no mental health issues; but based on my symptoms over the last few months, the diagnosis seemed quite accurate,” he said.

Initially, he was reluctant to seek professional help, but the gripping fear of the continued symptoms, and perhaps another panic attack jolted him to reality. “I didn’t think it was necessary to get help, but after a while I realised that if I didn’t I could not be there for myself and my family,” Tyndale said.

According to the Ministry of Health and Wellness, men face unique mental health challenges, often exacerbated by societal stigma and pressure to conform to traditional masculine norms, leading to underdiagnosis and untreated conditions.

The National Institutes of Health indicate that mental health issues affect both men and women, but men often experience unique challenges.

Approximately six million men suffer from depression annually, yet many do not seek help due to societal expectations that discourage vulnerability. Men are also four times more likely to die by suicide than women, highlighting a critical need for awareness and support.

Men may exhibit different symptoms of mental health disorders compared to women. While women might express sadness, men are more likely to show irritability or engage in risk-taking behaviours. This difference can lead to misdiagnosis and inadequate treatment, as traditional diagnostic criteria may not fully capture the male experience of mental health issues.

Recognising the signs of mental health issues is crucial for men. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes. Men are encouraged to seek help from healthcare providers, who can offer support and refer them to mental health professionals.

Tyndale has been taking the necessary steps to take care of his mental health. “I take life one day at a time. I used to fill my days with work, and little or no leisure time. I am now finding a balance in most of the things that I do; and I feel much better,” he said.

Here are a few of the ways men can begin to take care of their mental health:

KEY STRATEGIES TO ENHANCE MENTAL HEALTH:

• Practise self-care: Establish specific self-care goals and engage in activities that promote relaxation and joy. This can include hobbies, exercise, or simply taking time for yourself.

• Get quality sleep: Prioritise good sleep hygiene by maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, and ensuring your sleep environment is comfortable. Quality sleep is crucial for emotional regulation and overall mental wellbeing.

• Stay active: Regular physical activity can significantly boost your mood and reduce anxiety. Find an exercise routine that you enjoy, whether it’s walking, yoga, or dancing.

• Connect with others: Building and maintaining relationships is vital for mental health. Spend time with friends and family, or seek support from community groups or online forums.

• Practise mindfulness and gratitude: Engage in mindfulness practices such as meditation or deep breathing to stay present. Additionally, practising gratitude by reflecting on positive aspects of your life can enhance your outlook.

• Limit negative influences: Be mindful of your media consumption. Take breaks from news and social media that may contribute to stress or negative feelings.

• Seek professional help: If you are struggling with your mental health, consider reaching out to a mental health professional. Therapy can provide valuable tools and support for managing mental health challenges.

• Engage with nature: Spending time outdoors can improve mood and reduce feelings of stress. Try to incorporate nature walks or outdoor activities into your routine.

By incorporating these strategies into your daily life, men can foster a healthier mindset and improve their overall mental wellbeing. Remember, taking small steps consistently can lead to significant improvements over time.

*Name changed upon request

Keisha Hill@gleanerjm.com